Are you encountering the frustrating “Windows Resource Protection Could Not Perform The Requested Operation” error? This comprehensive guide will walk you through five effective methods to resolve this issue and get your system back on track.
What is Windows Resource Protection?
Windows Resource Protection (WRP) is a crucial feature in Microsoft Windows designed to safeguard critical system files, folders, and registry keys from unauthorized modifications. When WRP encounters issues, it can lead to the error message “Windows Resource Protection Could Not Perform The Requested Operation.”
Understanding the WRP Error
This error typically occurs when running the System File Checker (SFC) tool, which is used to scan and repair corrupted system files. When SFC fails to complete its task, it results in this error message.
Common Causes of the Error
Several factors can trigger this error:
- Corrupted system files
- Hard drive issues (e.g., bad sectors)
- Conflicts with other Windows components
- Disabled Windows services
- Malware infections
It’s worth noting that this error can sometimes be related to other Windows issues, such as your Windows license expiring soon or low memory problems.
Method 1: Run SFC Scan
The System File Checker (SFC) is a built-in Windows utility that can scan for and restore corrupted system files.
Running SFC in Normal Mode
- Open Command Prompt as administrator
- Type
sfc /scannowand press Enter - Wait for the scan to complete and restart your computer
Running SFC in Safe Mode
If the normal SFC scan fails, try running it in Safe Mode:
- Restart your computer in Safe Mode
- Open Command Prompt as administrator
- Run the
sfc /scannowcommand - Restart your computer in normal mode
If you encounter a PFN_LIST_CORRUPT error during this process, you may need to perform additional troubleshooting steps.
Method 2: Use CHKDSK Command
The Check Disk (CHKDSK) command can help identify and fix hard drive errors that may be causing the WRP error.
Running CHKDSK from Command Prompt
- Open Command Prompt as administrator
- Type
chkdsk C: /f(replace C: with your drive letter) - Press Enter and schedule the scan for the next restart
Running CHKDSK from File Explorer
- Open File Explorer and right-click on the drive you want to check
- Select Properties > Tools > Check
- Choose “Scan drive” to start the process
Method 3: Start Windows Modules Installer Service
The Windows Modules Installer Service is crucial for the proper functioning of SFC and other system tools.
Enabling the Service Manually
- Press Win + R and type
services.msc - Find “Windows Modules Installer” in the list
- Double-click and set Startup type to “Manual” or “Automatic“
- Click Start if the service is not running
Using Command Prompt to Configure the Service
- Open Command Prompt as administrator
- Type
sc config trustedinstaller start= auto - Then type
net start trustedinstaller
Method 4: Run Automatic Repair
Automatic Repair can fix various system issues, including those related to WRP. However, be aware that in some cases, you might encounter a Windows 10 Automatic Repair loop. If this happens, you may need to try alternative recovery methods.
Accessing Advanced Startup Options
- Restart your computer and press F8 repeatedly
- Select “Troubleshoot” > “Advanced options“
Performing Automatic Repair
- Choose “Automatic Repair” or “Startup Repair“
- Follow the on-screen instructions
- Restart your computer when the process completes
Method 5: Reset or Refresh Windows
If all else fails, resetting or refreshing Windows can resolve persistent issues.
Resetting Windows 10
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery
- Click “Get started” under Reset this PC
- Choose to keep or remove your files
- Follow the prompts to complete the reset
Performing an In-Place Upgrade
- Download the Windows 10 ISO file
- Run the setup file and choose “Upgrade this PC now“
- Follow the instructions to perform an in-place upgrade
If you encounter the “Your PC ran into a problem and needs to restart” error during this process, you may need to perform additional troubleshooting steps.
Additional Troubleshooting Tips
Running DISM Command
The Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool can repair the Windows image:
- Open Command Prompt as administrator
- Type
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth - Press Enter and wait for the process to complete
Clearing Temporary Files
- Press Win + R and type
%temp% - Delete all files in the Temp folder
- Empty the Recycle Bin
Checking for Windows Updates
Ensure your system is up to date:
- Go to Settings > Update & Security
- Click “Check for updates“
- Install any available updates
Preventing Future WRP Errors
Regular System Maintenance
- Run disk cleanup regularly
- Keep your antivirus software updated
- Avoid abrupt shutdowns
Creating System Restore Points
Create restore points before making significant changes to your system:
- Search for “Create a restore point” in the Start menu
- Select your system drive and click “Create“
Conclusion
The “Windows Resource Protection Could Not Perform The Requested Operation” error can be resolved through various methods. By following this guide, you should be able to fix the issue and prevent it from recurring in the future. Remember to back up your important data before attempting any significant system changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What causes the Windows Resource Protection error? The error can be caused by corrupted system files, hard drive issues, or conflicts with Windows components.
- Is it safe to run SFC and CHKDSK commands? Yes, these are built-in Windows utilities designed to fix system issues safely.
- How long does the SFC scan take? The SFC scan typically takes 10-30 minutes, depending on your system’s speed and the number of issues found.
- Will resetting Windows delete my files? You can choose to keep your personal files when resetting Windows, but it’s always best to backup important data first.
- How often should I create System Restore points? It’s recommended to create restore points before making significant system changes or at least once a month.
